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Allergy & Hayfever Chlorphenamine - 28 Tablets

Allergy & Hayfever Chlorphenamine - 28 Tablets

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  • ✔️ Relieves hayfever sneezing, itching, and runny nose fast
  • ✔️ Blocks histamine receptors to reduce allergic reactions
  • ✔️ Effective for urticaria, hives, and allergic skin reactions
  • ✔️ Suitable for adults and children aged 6 years and over
  • ✔️ Each pack contains 28 tablets of chlorphenamine maleate 4mg

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What Are Chlorphenamine Tablets and How Do They Help With Allergies?

 

If sneezing fits, a constantly runny nose, or itchy, watering eyes are making your day miserable, you are not alone. Hayfever affects roughly one in five people in the UK, and allergic reactions to dust, pet dander, and mould can strike at any time of year. Chlorphenamine tablets are a well-established, clinically proven antihistamine used to relieve these symptoms quickly and affordably. Each pack contains 28 tablets at just £2.49, making it one of the most accessible allergy treatments available without a prescription. You can browse the full range of treatments in our allergy and hay fever collection if you want to compare your options.

Chlorphenamine maleate 4mg has been used in the UK for decades. It is listed on the NHS as a first-generation antihistamine and is widely recommended for short-term relief of allergic conditions. Because it is available over the counter, you do not need a GP appointment to get started — though you should always read the label carefully and check with a pharmacist if you are unsure.

 

How Do Chlorphenamine Tablets Work in the Body?

 

When your immune system encounters an allergen — pollen, dust mites, animal fur — it releases a chemical called histamine. Histamine binds to receptors throughout the body and triggers the familiar cascade of symptoms: sneezing, itching, swelling, and a runny nose. Chlorphenamine works by blocking these H1 histamine receptors before histamine can bind to them, dampening the allergic response at its source.

  • Histamine is released by mast cells in response to an allergen
  • Chlorphenamine competes with histamine at H1 receptor sites
  • Receptor blockade reduces sneezing, itching, and nasal congestion
  • Effects typically begin within 30 minutes of taking a tablet
  • Duration of action is approximately four to six hours per dose

Because chlorphenamine crosses the blood-brain barrier more readily than newer antihistamines, it can cause drowsiness — which is worth knowing before you drive or operate machinery.

 

Who Should Use Chlorphenamine Tablets for Allergy Relief?

 

These tablets are suitable for a broad range of people dealing with allergic symptoms. They are particularly useful when you need fast-acting relief and do not mind the possibility of some sedation. That said, they are not right for everyone, so it is worth checking the list below before you buy.

  • Adults and children aged 6 years and over with hayfever or allergic rhinitis
  • People experiencing urticaria (hives) or itchy skin rashes caused by allergies
  • Those with insect bite reactions or mild allergic responses to food
  • Individuals who need occasional, short-term allergy relief without a prescription

They are not recommended for children under 6, pregnant or breastfeeding women without medical advice, or people with certain conditions such as glaucoma, urinary retention, or epilepsy. Always speak to a pharmacist if you are unsure whether this medicine is right for you.

 

How Do Chlorphenamine Tablets Compare to Other Antihistamines?

 

Choosing between antihistamines can feel confusing. Here is a straightforward comparison to help you decide.

Feature Chlorphenamine 4mg (This Product) Cetirizine 10mg (Alternative)
Generation First-generation antihistamine Second-generation antihistamine
Drowsiness risk Higher — may cause sedation Lower — generally non-drowsy
Onset of action Within 30 minutes Within 1 hour
Dosing frequency Every 4–6 hours (up to 6 tablets/day) Once daily
Suitable for children Yes, aged 6 and over Yes, aged 6 and over (liquid also available)

 

How Should You Store Chlorphenamine Tablets and Are They Suitable Long-Term?

 

Store your chlorphenamine tablets below 25°C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight. Keep them out of reach and sight of children at all times. Do not use the tablets after the expiry date printed on the packaging — even if they look and smell fine, their efficacy may have reduced.

For ongoing or year-round allergy symptoms, it is worth speaking to your GP about a longer-term management plan. Short-term use of chlorphenamine tablets is well tolerated by most people, but regular daily use over many weeks should be discussed with a healthcare professional. If you also experience eye symptoms such as itching or redness, you might find our eye care collection helpful alongside your antihistamine treatment.

This product is a medicine. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist before using if you have an underlying medical condition or are taking other medicines.

Allergy & Hayfever Chlorphenamine - 28 Tablets specifications
Treatment category Allergy & Hayfever
Active ingredient Chlorphenamine maleate 4mg
Mechanism of action H1 histamine receptor antagonist
Drug class First-generation antihistamine
Preparation Tablet
Route of administration Oral
Pack size 28 tablets
Strength 4mg
UK classification General Sale List (GSL)
Suitable for Adults and children aged 6 years and over
Effective for Hayfever, allergic rhinitis, urticaria, insect bites, allergic skin reactions

Specifications of Allergy & Hayfever Chlorphenamine - 28 Tablets

 

What Is Chlorphenamine and What Is It Used For?

 

Chlorphenamine maleate 4mg is an antihistamine medicine used to relieve the symptoms of allergic conditions. It works by blocking the action of histamine, the chemical your body releases during an allergic reaction. The NHS lists chlorphenamine as a first-generation antihistamine suitable for a range of allergic conditions in adults and children aged 6 and over.

It is commonly used to treat:

  • Hayfever (seasonal allergic rhinitis) — sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes
  • Perennial allergic rhinitis — year-round allergy symptoms from dust mites or pet dander
  • Urticaria (hives) — raised, itchy welts on the skin
  • Insect bite and sting reactions
  • Mild allergic skin reactions and contact dermatitis

 

What Do You Need to Know Before Using Chlorphenamine Tablets?

 

Before taking these tablets, it is important to check whether they are suitable for you. Do not take chlorphenamine if any of the following apply:

  • You are under 6 years of age
  • You are allergic to chlorphenamine maleate or any other ingredient in the tablet
  • You are taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) or have taken them in the last 14 days
  • You have acute asthma or a lower respiratory tract infection
  • You have narrow-angle glaucoma
  • You have urinary retention or an enlarged prostate
  • You have epilepsy
  • You are pregnant or breastfeeding — seek medical advice first

The following medicines may interact with chlorphenamine. Tell your pharmacist or doctor if you are taking:

  • Sedatives, sleeping tablets, or anxiolytics — increased drowsiness risk
  • Tricyclic antidepressants — enhanced anticholinergic effects
  • Alcohol — significantly increases sedation
  • Other antihistamines — do not take more than one antihistamine at the same time
  • Phenytoin — chlorphenamine may increase plasma levels

 

How Should You Use Chlorphenamine Tablets Correctly?

 

Always take chlorphenamine exactly as directed on the label or as advised by your pharmacist. Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water. You can take it with or without food, though taking it with food may help if you experience any stomach discomfort.

  1. Read the patient information leaflet before taking your first dose
  2. Swallow one tablet (4mg) whole with water
  3. Repeat every four to six hours if symptoms persist
  4. Do not take more than six tablets (24mg) in any 24-hour period
  5. For children aged 6–12, give half a tablet (2mg) every four to six hours — maximum three doses in 24 hours
  6. Do not give to children under 6 years of age
Age Group Dose Frequency Maximum in 24 Hours
Adults & children 12+ 1 tablet (4mg) Every 4–6 hours 6 tablets (24mg)
Children aged 6–12 ½ tablet (2mg) Every 4–6 hours 3 doses
Children under 6 Not recommended

 

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Chlorphenamine Tablets?

 

Like all medicines, chlorphenamine can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Knowing what to look out for helps you manage them safely. If you are also managing cold or flu symptoms alongside your allergy, our cold and flu collection has additional options that may help.

Common side effects (may affect more than 1 in 10 people):

  • Drowsiness or sedation
  • Dry mouth, nose, or throat
  • Dizziness or impaired coordination
  • Headache
  • Blurred vision

Less common side effects (may affect fewer than 1 in 10 people):

  • Nausea or stomach upset
  • Difficulty passing urine (urinary retention)
  • Palpitations or rapid heartbeat
  • Paradoxical excitability — particularly in children (restlessness, irritability)
  • Skin rashes or photosensitivity

Stop taking the tablets and seek immediate medical attention if you experience difficulty breathing, severe skin reactions, or swelling of the face, lips, or throat — these may indicate a serious allergic reaction.

 

How Should You Store Chlorphenamine Tablets Safely?

 

Correct storage keeps your tablets effective and safe for the full duration of their shelf life. Follow these simple guidelines:

  • Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place
  • Keep away from direct sunlight and moisture
  • Keep out of the sight and reach of children
  • Do not use after the expiry date printed on the packaging
  • Do not dispose of medicines via wastewater or household waste — return unused tablets to your pharmacy

If you are managing multiple health conditions and need to keep track of several medicines, our vitamins and supplements collection also includes products that support general immune health alongside your allergy treatment.

Written and reviewed by our qualified team

Your safety and success are our highest priorities. Our medical team rigorously evaluates every product and piece of advice we provide, ensuring you receive only the most effective, science-backed solutions available.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I buy chlorphenamine tablets online in the UK?

You can buy chlorphenamine tablets directly from Cured Pharmacy, a GPhC-registered UK online pharmacy, without needing a prescription. They are classified as a General Sale List (GSL) medicine, meaning they are available over the counter. Browse our full allergy and hay fever collection for the complete range of antihistamine options.

How do chlorphenamine tablets work in the body?

Chlorphenamine is a first-generation antihistamine that works by blocking H1 histamine receptors throughout the body. When your immune system detects an allergen, it releases histamine — chlorphenamine prevents histamine from binding to its receptors, which reduces sneezing, itching, and nasal congestion. Effects typically begin within 30 minutes of taking a tablet and last around four to six hours.

What is the correct dose of chlorphenamine for adults?

The standard adult dose is one 4mg tablet every four to six hours as needed. You should not take more than six tablets (24mg) in any 24-hour period. Always follow the instructions on the packaging and speak to a pharmacist if you are unsure about your dose.

Can children take chlorphenamine tablets?

Yes, chlorphenamine tablets are suitable for children aged 6 years and over, but the dose is lower than for adults. Children aged 6 to 12 should take half a tablet (2mg) every four to six hours, with a maximum of three doses in 24 hours. These tablets should not be given to children under 6 years of age.

Do chlorphenamine tablets cause drowsiness?

Yes, drowsiness is one of the most common side effects of chlorphenamine because it crosses the blood-brain barrier more readily than newer antihistamines. You should avoid driving, cycling, or operating heavy machinery until you know how the medicine affects you. Alcohol significantly worsens this effect, so avoid drinking while taking these tablets.

What is the best time to take chlorphenamine tablets for hayfever?

For hayfever, taking a tablet before you expect to be exposed to pollen — such as before going outdoors on a high pollen day — can help prevent symptoms from developing. Because the tablets cause drowsiness, many people find taking a dose in the evening particularly useful, as it can also help with sleep disrupted by allergy symptoms. Check the NHS hayfever page for additional advice on managing pollen exposure.

What should I do if I miss a dose of chlorphenamine?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember — unless it is nearly time for your next scheduled dose, in which case simply skip the missed one. Never take two doses at the same time or a double dose to compensate. Chlorphenamine is taken as needed rather than on a strict schedule for most people, so missing a dose is rarely a significant concern.

Who should not take chlorphenamine tablets?

Chlorphenamine is not suitable for everyone. You should not take it if you have narrow-angle glaucoma, urinary retention, epilepsy, or if you are taking MAOIs. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should seek medical advice before use. Children under 6 years of age should not take these tablets.

What are the alternatives to chlorphenamine for hayfever?

If you prefer a non-drowsy option, second-generation antihistamines such as cetirizine or loratadine are widely available and only need to be taken once daily. Nasal corticosteroid sprays are also recommended by the NHS for moderate to severe hayfever symptoms. Your pharmacist can help you choose the most appropriate treatment based on your symptoms and lifestyle.

Can I take chlorphenamine tablets with other medicines?

Chlorphenamine can interact with several medicines, including sedatives, sleeping tablets, tricyclic antidepressants, and MAOIs. Taking it alongside other antihistamines is not recommended. Always tell your pharmacist about all medicines, supplements, and herbal remedies you are currently taking before starting chlorphenamine.

How long can you take chlorphenamine tablets for?

Chlorphenamine is generally intended for short-term use — for example, during hayfever season or to manage an acute allergic reaction. If you find you need it regularly for more than a few weeks, it is worth speaking to your GP about a longer-term allergy management plan. Prolonged use without medical supervision is not recommended.

Can I take chlorphenamine tablets if I am pregnant?

You should not take chlorphenamine during pregnancy without first speaking to your GP or midwife. While it has been used in pregnancy, the safety data is limited and a healthcare professional needs to weigh up the risks and benefits for your individual situation. There may be safer alternatives available depending on your trimester and symptoms.

How do I manage the drowsiness caused by chlorphenamine?

The simplest way to manage drowsiness is to take your dose in the evening when sedation is less likely to interfere with your daily activities. Avoid alcohol completely while taking chlorphenamine, as it significantly increases sedation. If daytime drowsiness is a persistent problem, speak to your pharmacist about switching to a non-drowsy antihistamine such as cetirizine or loratadine.

Are there any recent studies on chlorphenamine for allergy treatment?

Chlorphenamine has been in clinical use for over 70 years and its efficacy and safety profile are well established in the published literature. Current NHS and NICE guidance continues to recommend first-generation antihistamines like chlorphenamine for short-term allergy relief, particularly where sedation may be acceptable or beneficial. Research increasingly favours second-generation antihistamines for long-term daily use due to their reduced side effect profile.

Can chlorphenamine tablets help with skin allergies and hives?

Yes, chlorphenamine is effective for urticaria (hives) and other allergic skin reactions, as histamine plays a central role in causing the itching and swelling associated with these conditions. The NHS recommends antihistamines as a first-line treatment for urticaria. If you experience persistent or severe skin reactions, you should see your GP for further assessment. You may also find relevant products in our skin care collection.

How Should You Use Chlorphenamine Tablets?

Chlorphenamine tablets are taken by mouth and should be swallowed whole with a full glass of water. You can take them with or without food, though taking them with a small snack may reduce the chance of stomach discomfort. Always read the label before taking your first dose and follow the instructions carefully.

Follow these steps each time you take a dose:

What Is the Correct Dose of Chlorphenamine Tablets?

The dose depends on your age. Never exceed the maximum daily dose listed below, and do not give these tablets to children under 6 years of age under any circumstances. If you are unsure about the right dose for your situation, ask your pharmacist before taking the medicine.

When Is the Best Time to Use Chlorphenamine Tablets?

Because chlorphenamine can cause drowsiness, many people find it most convenient to take their dose in the evening. This way, the sedative effect works in your favour — helping you sleep through the night without being disturbed by sneezing or itching. If you need daytime relief, take the tablet when you can rest or avoid driving.

For hayfever, taking a tablet before you go outdoors on a high pollen day — rather than waiting for symptoms to start — can help prevent the allergic response from building up. Check the Met Office pollen forecast to plan your doses around peak pollen times.

How Long Can You Use Chlorphenamine Tablets For?

Chlorphenamine tablets are suitable for short-term use during periods of high allergen exposure, such as the hayfever season, or to manage acute allergic reactions as they arise. Most people use them for a few days to a few weeks at a time without any issues.

If you find yourself needing chlorphenamine every day for more than two to three weeks, it is worth speaking to your GP. They may recommend a different treatment approach, such as a nasal corticosteroid spray or immunotherapy, for longer-term allergy management. Do not exceed the recommended dose. If in doubt, speak to your pharmacist.

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What Are the Most Common Side Effects of Chlorphenamine Tablets?

The most frequently reported side effect of chlorphenamine is drowsiness. Because it is a first-generation antihistamine, it crosses the blood-brain barrier and has a sedating effect that newer antihistamines largely avoid. This affects a significant proportion of people who take it, so it is important to be aware before you drive or operate machinery.

  • Drowsiness or sedation
  • Dry mouth, nose, or throat
  • Dizziness or light-headedness
  • Headache
  • Blurred vision
  • Impaired coordination or concentration

What Are the Less Common Side Effects of Chlorphenamine Tablets?

Some people experience side effects that are less frequent but still worth knowing about. These tend to be related to the anticholinergic properties of chlorphenamine — meaning it can affect certain nerve signals in the body beyond just blocking histamine.

  • Nausea or stomach upset
  • Difficulty passing urine (urinary retention) — particularly in men with an enlarged prostate
  • Palpitations or a faster than normal heartbeat
  • Paradoxical excitability in children — restlessness, irritability, or difficulty sleeping
  • Skin rash or increased sensitivity to sunlight
  • Constipation

What Are the Serious Side Effects of Chlorphenamine Tablets?

Serious side effects are rare but require immediate medical attention if they occur. Stop taking chlorphenamine straight away and call 999 or go to your nearest A&E if you experience any of the following.

  • Difficulty breathing or wheezing
  • Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat (angioedema)
  • Severe skin reactions such as blistering or peeling
  • Seizures or convulsions
  • Severe urinary retention — inability to pass urine at all

What Should You Do If You Experience Side Effects From Chlorphenamine?

For mild side effects such as a dry mouth or mild drowsiness, these often improve as your body adjusts to the medicine. Staying well hydrated and avoiding alcohol can help reduce the severity of these effects. If drowsiness is significantly affecting your daily life, speak to your pharmacist — a non-drowsy antihistamine may be more suitable for you.

You can report suspected side effects of any medicine in the UK through the MHRA Yellow Card scheme at yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk. This helps regulators monitor the safety of medicines in real-world use.

Can Chlorphenamine Tablets Interact With Other Medicines?

Yes, chlorphenamine has several clinically significant interactions. Taking it alongside other medicines that cause sedation — such as sleeping tablets, opioid painkillers, or anxiolytics — significantly increases the risk of excessive drowsiness and impaired coordination. Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) must not be taken at the same time or within 14 days of chlorphenamine. Tricyclic antidepressants can enhance the anticholinergic effects, increasing the risk of dry mouth, urinary retention, and constipation. Always tell your pharmacist about every medicine you are taking, including herbal remedies and supplements, before starting chlorphenamine.

If you are concerned about any side effects, contact your pharmacist or GP immediately.

Patient Information Leaflet

Important - Before taking any medication, it is always important to read the Patient Information Leaflet (PIL)

Written and reviewed by our qualified team

GPhC Number: 2233073
Tarun Kumar

Reviewed by:

Tarun Kumar

Superintendent/ Clinical Lead

📖 Find out more about our team of medical content authors and how we ensure the accuracy of our content with our content guidelines.

Content last updated: 31 Mar 2025

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